How cricket led Emon to cinema

Mamnun Hasan Emon has worked across modelling, television and cinema for more than two decades. He made his film debut in Tauquir Ahmed’s “Daruchini Dwip” in 2007 and later appeared in films including “Gohine Shobdo” and “Lal Tip”.

But acting was not part of Emon’s original plans. As a student, he was more interested in cricket and his studies, and says he might have continued playing cricket or pursued a conventional job if he had not entered the entertainment industry.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

“I was crazy about cricket. I was immersed in my studies and playing cricket. I played cricket very well. I played with seniors as well as juniors. My family wanted me to get good results. So, I never thought about acting or modelling,” Emon told The Daily Star in an interview.

Image

His entry into the entertainment industry began when he came across a commercial shoot at Notre Dame College while going there to play cricket. The commercial was directed by actor and director Tariq Anam Khan.

“I went there to play cricket. After arriving, I saw a shoot was going on, with a huge crowd. There were many little children too. I stood there after going to collect the ball. I watched the shooting and enjoyed it,” he recalled.

The experience made Emon interested in modelling. He had a portfolio prepared and submitted his photographs to four or five advertising agencies, including the office of actor and director Afzal Hossain.

“Then I started liking it little by little. That feeling is still there, deeply,” he said. Soon afterwards, Emon received a call at his home from Afzal Hossain’s office.

“One day, I got a call on our home telephone. After receiving the call, I was almost beside myself. What excitement! It cannot be explained in words. Then I went to Afzal Hossain bhai’s office,” he said.

Image

Another agency later asked him to obtain a passport for an overseas commercial shoot. Emon secured the necessary documents, travelled abroad for the shoot and earned Tk 10,000 from his first modelling assignment.

“What happiness it was. It was a great joy for me,” he said.

Television offers followed, and Emon began appearing in dramas. His work in the Banglalink Desh campaign also brought him wider recognition.

His move into cinema took longer. Emon recalled taking part in the mahurat of a film that was eventually shelved. “I felt very bad. But I did not break down,” he said.

He eventually made his film debut in Tauquir Ahmed’s “Daruchini Dwip” in 2007. He later took on his first leading role in “Ek Buk Bhalobasha”. His performance in “Gohine Shobdo” brought further recognition, while “Lal Tip” became another notable film in his career.

Emon recalled that lyricist Kabir Bakul played a role in signing him for “Ek Buk Bhalobasha”. Bakul called him and asked him to visit his home, where the contract was signed in the presence of the director. Emon received Tk 50,000 at the time.

“That incident will also remain in my memory,” he said. Reflecting on his career, Emon said he has worked in many films and received support from audiences. “I have done many films. I have received the love of many people,” he said.